Kelsey Craft

As Miss Florida International 2017 I have had the opportunity to meet some of the most inspirational women making a difference in their communities, states, and countries. I am thankful to be part of a pageant system that is based upon platforms and community service. Being a healthcare provider and witnessing first-hand the effects our choices have on our health, I am driven by a passion to help people live a long, happy, healthy life. With a personal goal of making it past my 100^th birthday, I am interested in sharing the secrets of the world’s healthiest people. My goal is to impact those around me to make small positive changes in their health that will prove to have long-term beneficial outcomes. This is why I am using my title as Miss Florida International to be an ambassador for Blue Zones Project®.

What is your current profession?

In progress! Upon completion of the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam this summer, I will begin my career as a PA in dermatology and/or emergency medicine.

Do you have a website?

I can be found on social media. My instagram tag is @kcraft1

What are your top 3 achievements?

1. Finishing my Master’s degree while still making time to explore the beautiful sunshine state and learn to fish.

2. Being crowned Miss Florida International 2017 on May 13.

3. Signing my first modeling contract this year and having the opportunity to film a commercial for Lover’s Key Resort and Flippers Restaurant.

What is your educational background?

I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science & Health from the University of Idaho. I am currently finishing my Master of Medical Science for Physician Assistant with graduation on August 18, 2017!

What is your favorite platform?

My daily vision is to lead people to a healthy, active lifestyle. I am an ambassador for Blue Zones Project®, a well-being initiative based on the commonalities found among the world’s longest lived people. Blue Zones helps people increase their quality and quantity of life by making the healthy choice the easy choice. We make positive changes around the community by adding healthier food options at restaurants, placing encouraging signage to decrease smoking or increase stair usage, improving the environment to make moving naturally a common practice, and helping people find their purpose in life based on their skills and talents. These are just a few proven ways that Blue Zones founder, Dan Buettner, discovered to increase our longevity. The goal is to have more people take the Blue Zones pledge which will lead to decreased healthcare costs and increased number of healthy years.

What is your dream job?

I am already living the dream as Miss Florida International! However the ultimate dream come true would be traveling the world as Miss International/Physician Assistant and helping the Blue Zones team decrease disease and lead people to a happier, healthier life.

Who is your role model?

My mom is the strongest woman I know. Being a single mother, she still made sure that my brother and I never went without opportunities. She has taught me to work hard, take responsibility and never set a limit on what I want to achieve.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years I will be working as a Physician Assistant with my student loans paid off. I also plan to make changes in school policies in regards to increasing physical education requirements. I find it a shame that children spend the majority of their time at school and we are taking away their opportunity to play and be active by not requiring PE after the 5th grade. Lastly, I hope to have found a companion who enjoys traveling the world as much as I do.

How do you maintain work and life balance?

To maintain a work-life balance I always keep a to-do list. I prioritize what needs to be accomplished first and I stick to my obligations. Following a planner and staying organized is the only way to not forget important meetings as well as my planned time for myself and loved ones.

Do you have any pets?

Sadly not right now. I am always on the go and I would feel too guilty leaving them home alone all day.

Favorites…

Book- Anything that is educational, inspirational, or comical can usually peak my interest but there is no way that I can pick a favorite. I am usually reading two or three books at any given time.

Song- It’s a great day to be alive – Travis Tritt

Movie- Finding Nemo is definitely at the top- I don’t think that movie will ever get old

Actor(s)- Denzel Washington and Jennifer Aniston

Sport(s)- I enjoy anything that gets me moving. Swimming has always been a big part of my life but right now I spend my free time lifting weights. The gym is fun because I can continue to challenge myself to reach new personal bests nearly every week.

Athlete(s)- Michael Phelps. He was winning all of his gold medals when I was headed to state swimming championships in high school. His dedication to mastering this sport is remarkable. Growing up I also used to watch hours of figure skating with my grandmother and I loved Tara Lipinski.

TV Show- Friends. Other than that, I never had television growing up or have had cable in adulthood so I have not watched many shows.

Place- The ocean is fascinating. I am happy any place with clear water and a colorful sunset.